Bacteria of the Burkholderia cepacia complex are cyanogenic under biofilm and colonial growth conditions
2008
Cyanide Production by Burkholderia cepacia Complex Bacteria
Sample size: 34
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Ryall Ben, Lee Xiaoyun, Zlosnik James EA, Hoshino Saiko, Williams Huw D
Primary Institution: Imperial College London
Hypothesis
Can bacteria of the Burkholderia cepacia complex produce hydrogen cyanide?
Conclusion
All species in the Bcc are cyanogenic when grown as surface attached colonies or as biofilms.
Supporting Evidence
- B. cenocepacia and all 9 species of the Bcc complex tested were able to make cyanide at comparable levels to P. aeruginosa.
- Cyanide was not detected during planktonic growth of Bcc strains.
- Cyanide production was detected from both B. cenocepacia K56-2 and J2315 when grown on solid media.
- Every strain tested from the Bcc was cyanogenic except for two B. dolosa strains.
Takeaway
The bacteria in the Burkholderia cepacia complex can make cyanide, but only when they grow in groups on surfaces, not when they are floating around in liquid.
Methodology
The study involved growing Bcc strains on solid media and in biofilm conditions to measure cyanide production.
Limitations
Cyanide production was not detected in liquid cultures, which may limit understanding of its role in infections.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website